As we move toward springtime in New Jersey, there are more and more people out enjoying the weather which increases the propensity to be bitten by an animal. This doesn’t just mean dog bites; cats and other animals can bite too and have just as devastating consequences. Even with careful precautions being taken by responsible pet owners, there are chances to be bitten by even the mildest mannered pet.
Ask almost any pet owner, and they will tell you that their fur baby would never attack anyone. However, animal bites do occur. Animals can strike when we least expect, and can cause serious injuries such as disfigurement, scarring and emotional pain. In the worst cases, they can be potentially life threatening. While adults and children alike can sustain significant injuries, children are most at risk of sustaining injuries with long-term effects.
In New Jersey, the pet owner is fully responsible for any animal under their control and is financially liable for expenses that are a result of an animal attack even if the animal has never attacked anyone before. These damages could include medical costs, loss of wages and any other damages incurred by the victim as a result of the incident.
It is important to seek medical attention immediately as there are hidden dangers with animal bites. Even if there doesn’t seem to be visible damage, the animal may carry something your body is not able to defend itself against. If costs are incurred, you may wish to seek legal counsel to help you with a personal injury claim to recover costs relating to the bite injury.